‘The Acre’, has been re-unveiled following the extensive refurbishment of the Richard Seifert-designed 1980s office building at 90 Long Acre in Covent Garden.
Some 80% of the original has been retained, with the works being carried out by Gensler and Arup.
The British Standards Institution (BSI) has taken 29,000 sq ft across two floors, and will open its new offices later this year.
The project has seen the addition of 12,000 sq ft of biodiverse roof terraces, the introduction of air-conditioning via Artus fan coil units – a technology developed by Arup that uses 80% less power than traditional units – and openable windows installed throughout the building as part of its passive design strategy.
The building is owned by Northwood Investors.
James Myburgh, Northwood’s vice president, said: “Through this transformation, The Acre has taken on its own identity as a new landmark in Covent Garden.
“Located in the centre of one of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods, it is now part of a tapestry of existing culture, energy and connectivity that is increasingly drawing occupiers to the West End.
“Looking back at what stood here before, this project demonstrates the potential for strategic and sustainable reuse of buildings in a way that responds intelligently to occupier demand.
“Now, we look forward to welcoming our occupiers and retailers to their new home over the coming months and opening The Acre up to the wider community to enjoy.”
Energy efficiency interventions have reduced operational energy use in the building by over 70%. It is all-electric and net zero in operation, with energy supplied from fully renewable sources. Blue roofs harvest rainwater, giving the building a 50% reduction in water use compared to typical building regulations.
A seven-storey glazed central atrium designed for use by tenants and the public, named The Heart, doubles as a thermal envelope to support The Acre’s energy efficiency. On the ground floor, 20,000 sq ft of retail, amenity and public realm have been introduced to bring Covent Garden’s renowned culture and energy into the building, with curated retail and hospitality offerings.
In March, sustainable plant-focused salad and plate eatery atis opened its tenth London store at The Acre. This launch contributes to the activation of the building’s previously closed-off perimeter by connecting Long Acre and Endell Street through The Heart.
The Acre also provides 350 cycling spaces and high-quality end-of-trip facilities to cater for active commuters. This leverages the building’s position along Quietway 1, London’s main cycle route from North to South that ventures through the city centre.
Valeria Segovia, principal and design director at Gensler, said: “Design has the power to transform communities, and The Acre exemplifies this vision by restoring the relationship between the iconic building and its context.
“Its transformation is about reinvention and connecting the past with the future to create a relevant, healthy and sustainable workplace.
“Located in the heart of Covent Garden, The Acre stands as a landmark that will enhance the vibrant energy of the area, offering an inspiring, inclusive and welcoming space for the public, local community, and tenants alike.”
